State Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. has long been a proponent of legalizing online casinos in New York, and he firmly believes that it is only a matter of time before it becomes a reality. In a recent interview with Bonus.com, Addabbo expressed his confidence in the inevitability of legal online gambling in the state.
Addabbo, who chairs the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, has been a vocal advocate for expanding gambling opportunities in New York. He argues that regulating and taxing online casinos would bring much-needed revenue to the state, which has been hit hard by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have seen firsthand how important it is to diversify our revenue streams and bring in new sources of funding,” Addabbo said. “Online casinos are a proven revenue generator, and it would be a shame for New York to miss out on this opportunity.”
In recent years, several neighboring states, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have legalized online casinos with great success. Addabbo points to these examples as evidence that New York is missing out on a lucrative industry.
“New York residents are already playing at online casinos, but the state is not seeing any of the benefits,” Addabbo explained. “By legalizing and regulating online gambling, we can protect consumers, create jobs, and generate much-needed revenue for our state.”
Addabbo’s push for legal online casinos has garnered support from a variety of stakeholders, including gaming industry experts, lawmakers, and even some tribal nations. However, he also faces opposition from anti-gambling advocates and some religious groups who argue that legalizing online casinos would lead to increased addiction and social ills.
Despite this opposition, Addabbo remains optimistic about the future of online gambling in New York. He believes that the economic benefits and regulatory framework of legal online casinos outweigh any potential drawbacks.
“I have no doubt that legal online casinos will be a reality in New York in the near future,” Addabbo said. “It’s time for our state to embrace this industry and reap the rewards that other states are already enjoying.”
As Addabbo continues to push for legal online casinos in New York, industry experts and lawmakers alike will be watching closely to see how this issue unfolds in the coming months. With the potential for significant economic impact and job creation, the legalization of online casinos could be a game-changer for the state of New York.